Multi-positional tail skids and associated methods of use

US6845944B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• C. Byram Bays-Muchmore · Bellevue, US
• Todd B. Brouwer · Duvall, US
• Malcolm S. Bryant · Maple Valley, US
• Warren D. Burggraf · Fall City, US
• Daniel S. Little · Bellevue, US
• Douglas G. Miller · North Bend, US
• Stanley E. Tolzmann · Kirkland, US
• Martin M. Withington · Seattle, US
• Thomas A. Zierten · Bellevue, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 11, 2003
• Grant date: Jan 25, 2005
• Expiry date: Apr 11, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64C2025/005
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Multi-positional tail skid assemblies and methods for their use. In one embodiment, a multi-positional tail skid assembly includes a skid member and a skid deployment system operably connected to the skid member. The skid member can include a first portion attachable to an aft portion of a fuselage and a second portion movable relative to the aft portion of the fuselage. The second portion can support a skid surface configured to contact a surface of a runway. The skid deployment system can be configured to move the skid surface between first and second positions. When the skid surface is in the first position, the skid surface is closer to the aft portion of the fuselage than when the skid surface is in the second position.